Family Ties

Division of Student Affairs

December 1, 2025

Dear parents and families,

This season naturally brings a moment to pause and reflect on all that we are thankful for. The privilege of spending my days supporting your students and seeing their growth makes me especially grateful.

Tomorrow, I will host the final Dr. G’s Fun House of the semester. This is a low-time-commitment, high-fun event that is FREE for your student, featuring music, ice skating and food trucks—a great opportunity for them to step away and unwind as they prep for final projects and exams.

As a reminder, we start Rapid Access counseling appointments for students at the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services through Dec. 18. TimelyCare is also available for 24/7 medical and mental health virtual appointments.

Also, congratulations if your student is graduating this December! The December Recognition Ceremony is Dec. 13, 2025, at 10 a.m. CST in the Athletic Complex.

It has been a privilege having your student and your family here these past four years and an honor to have you, our parents and family members, as forever members of the WashU community.

Warmly,
Anna “Dr. G” Gonzalez
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
@akgonzal327

“Picture This” is our new monthly photo spotlight, capturing the moments that make campus vibrant and unforgettable for your student.

Encourage your student to attend the last Dr. G's Fun House of the semester tomorrow. This is a low-time-commitment, high-fun event that is FREE for your student and features music, ice skating and food trucks.

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If your student lives in Residential Life housing, remind them to review the ResLife Reporter detailing Winter Break housing. Students must register for Winter Break housing if they intend to stay on campus. There is no additional charge for housing over Winter Break if students register before the respective deadlines.

Information about dining hours and available services over break periods is available on the Dining Services website. 

Preorder a care package for your student
Support your student during exams with a special surprise care package. Reserve one today!

Preorder flowers and gifts for your graduate
Bear Necessities supplies flowers & gifts for WashU graduation events! Preorder for pick up at the ceremony through the Bear Necessities website.

Store your student’s vehicle on campus over the break
Parking & Transportation offers vehicle storage during Winter Breaks. Learn more about this service on the Parking & Transportation website. 

The December Recognition Ceremony is Sat., Dec. 13, 2025 at 10 a.m. CST in the Athletic Complex. Invitations were emailed to all summer graduates and fall degree candidates in October. 

The university-wide Commencement Ceremony is Fri. May 15, 2026, at 9 a.m. CST on Francis Olympic Field. Additional information on school and affinity ceremonies is available on the Commencement website.

Encourage your student to take a break from studying and join us for a wickedly good time at this fall’s Moonlight Breakfast on Wed., Dec. 10, from 9–11 p.m. at Bear’s Den and The Village. Students can enjoy a late-night breakfast, great music, and good vibes before wrapping up the semester. Moonlight Breakfast is free for WashU undergraduate students with a meal plan who bring a WashU ID!

At WashU, students graduate with more than knowledge. They graduate with connections, skills and experiences that prepare them for lifelong success.

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As you prepare to visit St. Louis for commencements or special celebrations on campus, consider staying at the Charles E. Knight Executive Education & Conference Center, conveniently located on the Danforth Campus.

Counseling appointments through the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services have transitioned to Rapid Access Counseling Zoom Appointments until Dec. 18. Students will be able to schedule both return and new appointments with a counselor beginning 16 hours prior to the time they would like to be seen. Learn more. 

December 5: Last day of classes
December 8-17: Reading period and final exam
January 12: First day of classes
January 19: Martin Luther King Holiday - no classes

View the full academic calendar →

View more events offered by the Division of Student Affairs →

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